Debate sparks again on making Chicago its own state

SPRINGFIELD (Heartland Newsfeed) — There has been ongoing discussion in the past eight years in regards to distancing downstate Illinois from the city of Chicago and debate that took place on the floor of the Illinois House was no different.

Rep. Reggie Phillips (R-Charleston) was no different with the presentation of House Resolution 1138, a resolution urging the United States Congress to declare the city as the 51st state in the nation, separating the city from the remainder of Illinois. The resolution was filed with the House clerk’s office on May 24 and was referred to the Rules Committee a day later.

Phillips says it is past due time to separate the city that already causes much division in the state.

“The City of Chicago and the downstate approach issues from completely different perspectives and have very little in common,” Phillips said.

Phillips additionally notes that this fact has been seen fairly often, especially on the House floor, citing that Chicago is often exempted problem legislation under consideration and considers the matter quite frustrating as a downstate politician.

“The City of Chicago often comes to the state seeking more and more funding,” Phillips said. “I think it’s time we thought very seriously about making [the City of] Chicago its own state.”

Phillips noted that if Chicago can be excluded from legislation, it can be excluded from the state, in similar fashion to recent discussions and referendums in California to break up the Golden State.

Jake Leonard is the editor-in-chief of Heartland Newsfeed. He is general manager of Heartland Internet Media Networks and an active contributor to four newspapers for Pana News Group. He also serves as chairman of Tri-Counties Libertarian Party and Capital Area Libertarian Party, deputy candidate recruitment director for the Libertarian Party of Illinois and as chairman/co-founder of the Libertarian Party Millennial Caucus.